Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Master of Natural Science program with a concentration in Earth and space sciences is designed to meet the needs of professionals seeking a graduate-level degree. It is especially suited for individuals who desire professional training rather than research training.

Program Description

The program must be transdisciplinary; students are expected to emphasize coursework in two or more areas of specialization. The program offers the opportunity for graduate training in the natural sciences (i.e., biological sciences, mathematics and physical sciences) and cognate areas. The program's flexible design allows students to create individualized professional graduate programs tailored to their backgrounds and goals.

STEM-OPT for International Students

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S.

At a Glance

• College/school: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Location: Tempe
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

Degree Requirements

30 credit hours including the required applied project course (SES 593)

• Required Core (1 credit hour): SES 502 Exploring SESE Research (1)
• Other Requirements (19 credit hours):
  • SES 501 SESE Colloquium (1)
  • GLG or SES courses (18)
• Electives or Research (4 credit hours)
• Culminating Experience (6 credit hours): SES 593 Applied Project (6)

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
• Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
• Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program.
• All applicants must submit:
  • graduate admission application and application fee
  • official transcripts
  • statement of purpose
  • three letters of recommendation
  • proof of English proficiency

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Application Deadlines

• Fall:
  • Session A/C: In Person, 12/01, Priority
• Spring:
  • Session A/C: In Person, 10/01, Priority

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include the following:

• Apply advanced scientific concepts to investigate processes shaping the interior and surface of the Earth and other planetary bodies.
• Apply advanced analytical, modeling, and/or field-based methods to investigate Earth and space science problems.
• Conduct independent research that demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate geological and/or planetary data.

Career Opportunities

Professionals with expertise in Earth and space sciences are in high demand across sectors and industries, including remote sensing, natural resource management, data science, environmental consulting, hazard and risk assessment, geophysics and planetary science. Skills in the measurement and analysis of data related to the physics, chemistry and structures of earthly and planetary systems are valuable to businesses and institutions that rely on data-driven strategies to interact with the planet and explore beyond Earth.

• Career examples include:
  • geologist
  • high school teacher
  • science communication expert
  • science writer and science journalist

Program Details

• Field Work, Geological sciences, Landforms, Rocks, approved for STEM-OPT extension, geology, minerals, natural
• With this program's tailored approach, you'll combine two or more areas of specialization and participate in projects that investigate the great unknowns of Earth and our solar system. This degree is designed for students who wish to enhance their professional portfolio.